As of January 1, 2024, Illinoisans are no longer able to vape or use e-cigarettes in public places, workplaces, and near any entrances, windows, or ventilation areas. This is part of the updated Smoke-Free Illinois Act (SFIA), aimed at protecting the public from the effects of secondhand smoke and vapor.
Under this act, an electronic cigarette means any device that delivers nicotine or other substances through inhalable vapor or aerosol. This includes all e-cigarettes, e-cigars, e-pipes, e-hookahs, and vape pens, regardless of their branding or marketing.
Illinois businesses are now also required to display signs that clearly indicate the banning of vaping and e-cigarette use on their premises. These signs must be visible to both employees and customers. To help with this, the Smoke-Free Illinois website provides free downloadable signs. In addition, the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) will soon offer new signage options at no cost.
To ease the transition, CUPHD has introduced a ‘grace period’ lasting until March 31, 2024. During this period, enforcement will focus on warnings and education about the new regulations. After this grace period, non-compliance will result in fines. Violations of the SFIA can be reported directly through the CUPHD website.
